Over 32 million people have been forced to cross an international border to fleewar, violence, persecution, or conflict. That's roughly equal to the population of Canada.

The right to seek asylum from persecution has been codified under international law since 1951.But over 50 years later, the rights of refugees are still precarious. Racial dynamics, history, religion, culture, and economic forces often shape national asylum laws that leave refugees subject to the whims of political leaders.

In honor of World Refugee Day later this month, we are hosting our June dinner at the Cuisine Lab - a social enterprise restaurant promoting refugee integration and empowerment through professional mentoring, culinary education, and employment (Thanks to Cuisine Lab co-founder Sarah Hoibak for the recommendation!). Over the course of the evening, we'll discuss what it takes to fulfill the promise of the fundamental right to seek safety. What does success look like? What actions can we take in our personal and professional capacity to support their protection?